The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. The king, his court, and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, resided at the Chitralada Royal Villa and his successor King Vajiralongkorn resides at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall, both in the Dusit Palace, but the Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year. The palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand, with over eight million people visiting each year.
Seen from across the Chao Phraya River in 2017
The Grand Palace from across the Chao Phraya River, c. 1880
An information sign regarding the strict dress code for entry to the Grand Palace.
The Phimanchaisri Gate, the main entrance from the Outer to the Middle Court
Dusit Palace is a compound of royal residences in Bangkok, Thailand. Constructed over a large area north of Rattanakosin Island between 1897 and 1901 by King Chulalongkorn. The palace, originally called Wang Suan Dusit or 'Dusit Garden Palace' (วังสวนดุสิต), eventually became the primary place of residence of the King of Thailand, including King Chulalongkorn, King Vajiravudh, King Prajadhipok, King Bhumibol Adulyadej and King Vajiralongkorn. The palace covers an area of over 64,749 square metres (696,950 sq ft) and is dotted between gardens and lawns with 13 different royal residences. Dusit Palace is bordered by Ratchwithi Road in the north, Sri Ayutthaya Road in the south, Ratchasima Road in the west and U-Thong Nai Road on the east.
Aerial view of Dusit Palace, in the southern part of Dusit District, Bangkok
King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) found the Grand Palace too overcrowded and unhealthy, as a result he began construction on a new palace, which eventually became Dusit Palace.
The Vimanmek Mansion, built in 1900, is entirely made of teak. It was built in Ko Sichang, Chonburi Province, but was dismantled on the orders of the king and reconstructed at Dusit Palace in 1901.
Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall was built in 1904 as an audience hall and entertainment venue for the Dusit Palace complex.